In a triumphant moment 26 years in the making, the Michigan Wolverines secured the College Football Playoff national championship with a decisive 34-13 victory over the Washington Huskies at NRG Stadium in Houston on Monday night. This marked Michigan’s first national title since 1997 and a significant achievement under the leadership of head coach Jim Harbaugh.
Michigan showcased its dominance by rushing for an impressive 303 yards, effectively neutralizing Washington’s star quarterback, Michael Penix Jr. The Wolverines, ranked second in passing yards allowed per game in the FBS, held Penix to 255 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions on 27-of-51 passing. This defensive prowess significantly contributed to limiting Washington’s explosive offense to just 301 total yards.
Running back Blake Corum emerged as a standout performer for Michigan, accumulating 134 rushing yards and scoring two touchdowns. His stellar performance set a school record for the most touchdowns in a single season, with 28. Corum’s contributions, coupled with early touchdowns from Donovan Edwards, propelled Michigan to a commanding 14-3 lead in the first quarter.
Despite Washington’s attempts to rally and narrow the deficit to 17-10 before halftime, Penix’s interception to Michigan’s Will Johnson on the first play of the third quarter proved pivotal. Penix’s subsequent ankle injury further hampered Washington’s offensive effectiveness. Although the Huskies’ defense held its ground, allowing only a field goal, Michigan maintained control of the game.
As the clock wound down with Michigan leading 27-13, Penix’s desperate attempt to connect with wide receiver Jalen McMillan on fourth down resulted in an interception by Michigan’s Mike Sainristil. Sainristil’s 80-yard runback set the stage for Corum’s final touchdown, sealing Michigan’s emphatic victory and the coveted national championship.
This triumph represents the culmination of Michigan’s resilience and determination throughout the season. Overcoming challenges such as Harbaugh’s early-season suspension, an in-season investigation into impermissible signal-stealing, and another suspension for Harbaugh during a crucial matchup in State College, Pennsylvania, the Wolverines remained undeterred. Their unwavering resolve, coupled with the No. 1 defense in college football, propelled them to victory in critical moments, including the Rose Bowl against Alabama.
Donovan Edwards, often recognized for his performances in pivotal moments, showcased his big-game prowess in the national championship. Despite playing a limited role for much of the season, Edwards opened the game with a 41-yard touchdown and added another score with a 46-yard run. His impactful contributions laid the foundation for Michigan’s success, complemented by Corum’s powerful running.
While Penix’s performance statistically did not represent his brilliant season, the stakes and the pressure of the national championship game heightened the significance of his struggles. A week after a dazzling display in the College Football Playoff win over Texas, Penix faced relentless pressure from Michigan’s defense, leading to an uncharacteristically off night.
The game initially appeared poised for a runaway victory for Michigan, with Edwards’ explosive runs setting an early tone. However, credit is due to Washington’s resilient defense, which prevented Michigan from running away with the game entirely. Despite the fireworks in the early minutes, Michigan faced a series of offensive challenges, including multiple punts and turnovers on downs. Washington’s defense held firm, allowing the Huskies to stay within striking distance until the later stages of the game.
For the Pac-12 conference, Washington’s journey to the national championship game was a bittersweet moment. Breaking a seven-year playoff drought for the conference and delivering an exhilarating semifinal win, the Huskies represented the Pac-12 with distinction. However, the impending departure of 10 out of 12 teams to other power conferences casts a shadow over the conference’s recent successes.
As the Big Ten celebrates Michigan’s national championship, the prospect of a conference rematch in the upcoming season adds anticipation and excitement to future matchups.
